The PLEASE Skill is a component of DBT that focuses on taking care of one’s physical health as a foundation for emotional well-being. The acronym stands for: treating Physical iLlness, balanced Eating, Avoiding mood-altering substances, balanced Sleep, and regular Exercise. By addressing these physical needs, individuals can better regulate their emotions and reduce vulnerability to stress. This approach recognizes the profound connection between mind and body, advocating for self-care to improve mental health.
The Critical Role of Parental Self-Care
For parents navigating the adolescent years, maintaining nonreactivity in the face of teenage mood swings, rebellion, and challenges is essential. Emotional regulation is key. The PLEASE Skill equips parents with the means to improve their own emotional resilience, thereby enhancing their ability to respond to their teenagers calmly and constructively. When parents take care of their physical well-being, they are less likely to react impulsively or with frustration to their teen's behavior, creating a more understanding and less volatile home environment.
Applying the PLEASE Skill
Consider the story of Sarah, a mother of two teenagers, who frequently finds herself in the midst of her children's emotional storms. After incorporating the PLEASE Skill into her life—focusing on exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and addressing health concerns—Sarah notices a marked improvement in her emotional steadiness. This newfound calm allows her to support her son through a school conflict thoughtfully and effectively, strengthening their relationship and promoting positive problem-solving.
Strengthening Emotional Resilience Through Self-Care
The impact of the PLEASE Skill on parental effectiveness is profound. By prioritizing their physical health, parents can significantly bolster their emotional resilience. This not only equips them to manage parenting stresses more effectively but also sets a positive example of healthy coping strategies for their teenagers.
A Healthier Parent-Teen Dynamic
The DBT PLEASE Skill offers a strategic approach for parents to support their teenage children through the challenges of adolescence with patience and understanding. By emphasizing the importance of physical health in emotional regulation, parents can create a more stable, understanding, and supportive family environment. Self-care is not a luxury—it's an integral part of being a present, nonreactive, and effective parent.